Referendum 2026: When do we vote on the Justice referendum? Dates, times and how to do it

Here we are. After months of chatter, courtroom clashes, and protests outside courthouses, the big day is just around the corner. If you've also been wondering when we actually vote in this referendum, grab a red marker and circle these dates on the calendar: voting will be held on Sunday 22nd and Monday 23rd March 2026.

I know, voting on a Monday feels a bit odd, but it happened for the last European elections too. They've stretched it out over two days to make sure everyone gets a say, especially since this is a pretty major constitutional reform we're talking about. On Sunday, polling booths are open from 7 am to 11 pm, and on Monday from 7 am to 3 pm. So, if you've got an early start on Monday, you can actually swing by the polling station before heading into work. Handy, right?

And while we're at it, let's skip the boring technical jargon: today, I'll try to explain it like we're catching up over a coffee, starting with a memory that came back to me reading the headlines lately.

When voting becomes history: from South Sudan to Italy

Every time I hear about a referendum, my mind flashes back to 2011. I was glued to the TV following the 2011 South Sudanese independence referendum. Serious stuff, one of those times where that piece of paper in the polling booth actually redraws the world's map. Nearly 4 million South Sudanese, after decades of civil war, turned up to vote from January 9th to 15th. The result? A landslide: 98.83% voted for independence. The birth of a nation.

Now, our referendum certainly won't create a new country, but in its own way, it aims to shake up a part of the Constitution that matters to everyone: the Justice system. That's why, when it comes time to vote in this referendum, it's not something to take lightly.

What changes if the Yes (or No) vote wins

I won't pretend to be a professor here, but just so we're clear on what we'll be marking on that pale green ballot paper: the reform introduces the separation of careers for judges and public prosecutors. In plain English: those who judge and those who prosecute will follow separate paths, with two distinct Superior Councils of the Judiciary. Members won't just be elected by the judicial factions anymore; some will also be chosen by lot to avoid the infamous "old boys' clubs."

It also sets up a new High Court for disciplinary proceedings. Basically, a real overhaul. Supporters of the Yes vote talk about judges being more impartial and rights-focused, something Arturo Parisi has been highlighting lately. Those campaigning for No, on the other hand, warn of "sheriff prosecutors" and doubled administration costs (reportedly an extra 50 million euros a year).

The practical voting guide: documents and tips

Let's get down to brass tacks. To vote, you need your electoral card. That old one you usually keep in your wallet alongside your supermarket receipts. If it's run out of space for stamps or you've lost it, no panic: your local council's electoral office will be open with extended hours. In the days before the vote (Friday 20th and Saturday 21st) from 9 am to 6 pm, and throughout the voting period while polls are open. Bring some ID, and they'll sort you out with a duplicate in two minutes flat.

Pay attention to these details so you don't end up looking like a goose:

• ID: Your ID card, driver's licence, or passport are all fine. As long as it has your photo and is valid.
• Pencil: Leave the ballpoint pen at home. At the polling station, they'll give you a copy pencil – the one that leaves a permanent mark.
• Assisted voting: If you have mobility or vision issues, you can be accompanied by another voter. No one can accompany more than one person with a disability.

Italians abroad? Here's how it works

For our compatriots outside the country, it's a bit different. Those registered with AIRE (the register of Italians residing abroad) will receive an electoral package directly at home, containing the ballot paper and a pre-paid return envelope. It needs to be sent back by 4 pm on March 19th (local time) to the relevant consular office.

For those temporarily abroad for work, study, or medical treatment (for at least three months), you needed to have applied by the 18th of February. If you did, keep an eye on your mailbox: the package will be delivered straight there.

No excuses: there's no quorum requirement

I know a lot of people think: "If I don't bother, it won't pass anyway." But actually, that's not the case here: for constitutional referendums, there's no quorum requirement. The side with the most votes – Yes or No – wins, regardless of how many people turn out. Put simply: if you stay home, others decide for you. And since we're talking about changing the Constitution, it's probably worth making a trip to the polling station, even just to mark your preferred cross.

So, between a card game and your Sunday outing, carve out half an hour. The future of Italy's justice system is literally in your hands. And the next day at the café, you'll be the only one who can genuinely say, "I was part of it."